THE NEW KILLER IT DRESS

She’s a ruthless, self-confessed psychopath, but Killing Eve’s jet-set assassin Villanelle (played by British actor Jodie Comer) does have one weakness: for fashion. From a jacquard Dries Van Noten suit to butterwouldn’t-melt Miu Miu sundress, the show’s killer wardrobe – created by costume designer Phoebe de Gaye – has helped cement its status as essential (and addictive) autumn viewing.

Not to play favourites, but there’s one look that’s particularly memorable: the frou-frou Molly Goddard dress Villanelle wears in the second episode. From the designer’s S/S ’16 collection, the dress – at first glance sugary-sweet, at second glance more subversive thanks to the black bra beneath and badass Balenciaga boots – is indicative not only of the power of clothes, but of femininity. Indeed, Killing Eve is created by Phoebe Waller-bridge and there is a sense of its leading ladies being lensed through the female gaze. Villanelle dresses for herself – and who cares if you get it or not? ‘I think it’s a misconception that if you’re wearing something big it’s somewhat restricting. Actually, the fit and shape are relaxed enough that you could be wearing jeans and a T-shirt,’ says Goddard. ‘And pink’s a great colour – very powerful.’

It’s testament to the cultural clout of TV that the dress has catapulted Goddard to a whole new audience. According to Lyst, searches for ‘pink Molly Goddard dress’ are up 38%. Indeed, Villanelle might well do for tulle party frocks what Carrie Bradshaw did for name necklaces and Rachel Green for layered hair.